10 Historic Small Towns in Georgia You Should Visit

Georgia, the Peach State, is known for its vibrant cities like Atlanta, Savannah, and Augusta, celebrated for their rich culture, thriving music scenes, and Southern hospitality. The state is also renowned for its lush landscapes, from the scenic Blue Ridge Mountains to its sprawling coastline along the Atlantic. But there’s more to Georgia than its urban centers and natural wonders.

The state boasts a storied history, from its pivotal role in the Civil War to its deep African-American heritage and Native American traditions. Scattered across the state, charming small towns preserve this legacy. So, if you want to learn about Georgia’s past in the most authentic way, consider visiting these ten charming historic small towns in the Peach State.

Established in 1809, Madison, Georgia, serves as the county seat of Morgan County. The town flourished as a stagecoach stop and an in-town residence for planters’ families.

Madison is renowned for its well-preserved antebellum architecture, with the Madison Historic District being one of the largest in the state. Notable landmarks include Heritage Hall, an exquisite example of Greek Revival architecture built in 1811, and the Madison-Morgan Cultural Center, housed in a Romanesque Revival building from 1895.

You can explore the Rogers House (circa 1809), one of the oldest houses in Madison, and the Rose Cottage, a charming home built by a formerly enslaved woman. The town’s historic cemeteries and the Morgan County African-American Museum offer deeper insights into the area’s rich heritage.

Madison’s picturesque downtown features boutique shops, art galleries, and eateries, all set against a backdrop of historic homes and tree-lined streets.

2. Dahlonega

Nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Dahlonega became the site of America’s first major gold rush in 1828, attracting thousands of prospectors. The town’s name derives from the Cherokee word “taulonica,” meaning “yellow metal.”

When you visit this charming town in Georgia, you can immerse yourself in its golden heritage at the Dahlonega Gold Museum Historic Site, housed in the 1836 Lumpkin County Courthouse, the oldest surviving courthouse in Georgia.

For a hands-on experience, the Consolidated Gold Mine offers underground tours and gold panning opportunities, which gives you a glimpse into 19th-century mining life.

Apart from its gold rush legacy, Dahlonega is celebrated as the “Heart of Georgia Wine Country,” featuring multiple vineyards and wineries that showcase the region’s viticultural excellence. The historic downtown square enchants with its preserved architecture, housing art galleries, boutiques, and diverse dining options.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby attractions like Amicalola Falls State Park, home to Georgia’s tallest waterfall, and the Appalachian Trail, which begins just a short drive away.

This iconic town, located on the southern coast of Georgia, was established in 1787 as Buttermilk Bluff. It was later incorporated in 1802.

19th-century architecture is what you’ll see in St. Marys’ historic district, with streets named after its 20 founders. A notable landmark is the Oak Grove Cemetery, founded in 1788.

St. Marys serves as the gateway to Cumberland Island National Seashore, renowned for its unspoiled beaches and wild horses. You can access the island via a ferry departing from the St. Marys Waterfront.

The town also houses the St. Marys Submarine Museum, featuring exhibits on naval history and submarine artifacts. Additionally, the nearby McIntosh Sugarworks, built in the late 1820s, stands as a testament to the region’s industrial past.

4. Milledgeville

Founded in 1803 and named after Governor John Milledge, Milledgeville served as the state’s capital from 1804 to 1868. This planned city features wide streets and public squares, reflecting early 19th-century urban design.

A centerpiece of Milledgeville’s history is the Old Governor’s Mansion, completed in 1839. This Greek Revival structure housed Georgia’s governors until 1868 and now operates as a museum where you can learn about the political past of the state.

The Old State Capitol, built in 1807, is another significant landmark. It was here that Georgia’s secession from the Union was debated and passed in 1861. Today, the building is part of Georgia Military College and includes a museum open to visitors.

Milledgeville’s historic district encompasses over 3,000 acres, featuring antebellum homes and churches that survived the Civil War. Strolling through this area offers a glimpse into the architectural styles of the period.

For literary enthusiasts, Andalusia Farm, the home of author Flannery O’Connor, has been designated a National Historic Landmark. The farm provides a window into the life and work of one of America’s notable writers.

Named after Major General Jett Thomas, a War of 1812 hero, Thomasville was established in 1826. It became a prominent winter resort in the late 19th century when it attracted affluent Northerners seeking a mild climate.

The town’s historic downtown is a testament to its rich past, featuring brick-paved streets and Victorian-era architecture. Historic landmarks you’ll love seeing include the Lapham–Patterson House, an 1885 Queen Anne-style residence renowned for its unique design and innovative features.

Thomasville is also home to the Thomasville History Center, which preserves the region’s heritage through exhibits and restored buildings. It provides you with the information you need to learn about the evolution of the town.

A living symbol of the town’s history is the “Big Oak,” a massive live oak tree estimated to be over 300 years old, standing as a natural monument to the area’s enduring legacy.

6. Washington

Georgia’s Washington was founded in 1780. It was the site of the last official meeting of the Confederate government in 1865, marking a significant moment in American history.

Washington boasts over 100 antebellum homes, offering a glimpse into pre-Civil War architecture. Notable among these is the Robert Toombs House, once home to the Confederate general and politician. Another significant site is the Callaway Plantation, which gives you an insight into 19th-century plantation life.

When you visit, make sure to head to the Washington Historical Museum, which houses artifacts relating to the rich past of the town.

You’ll also enjoy strolling through Washington’s historic district and witnessing its well-preserved buildings and tree-lined streets.

Affectionately known as the “Apple Capital of Georgia,” this charming small town is the perfect destination for those who are interested in agricultural charm and outdoor adventure. Each autumn, Ellijay comes alive with the Georgia Apple Festival, celebrating its rich apple-growing heritage.

When you visit, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the season by picking your own apples at local orchards like B.J. Reece Orchards and Hillcrest Orchards. Both offer a variety of apple-related products and family-friendly activities.

Apart from the orchards, Ellijay’s location in the North Georgia mountains makes it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The area boasts numerous hiking and mountain biking trails, with the Appalachian Trail accessible from nearby Springer Mountain. Water activities abound on the Cartecay and Ellijay Rivers, where visitors can enjoy tubing, kayaking, and fishing.

The town’s historic downtown offers a quaint atmosphere with boutique shops, local eateries, and antique stores, all set against a backdrop of scenic mountain views.

8. Senoia

This small town is located just south of Atlanta and is known for its historic charm and cinematic appeal. What sets Senoia apart is its beautifully preserved Main Street, lined with Victorian-era buildings that create a picture-perfect backdrop.

Senoia was first settled in the mid-19th century and officially incorporated in 1860. Over the years, it evolved from a quiet farming community into a hub for film and television. Fans of The Walking Dead will recognize it as the fictional town of Woodbury, a setting that brought this small Georgia town international fame.

At present, visitors can explore the Senoia Area Historical Society Museum, which chronicles the town’s early days and its growth through the years. In addition to its historical significance, Senoia is a shopper’s paradise, offering unique boutiques, antique stores, and local eateries.

In 1807, Eatonton was established as the seat of Putnam County. Named after William Eaton, a diplomat and hero of the First Barbary War, the town was built in the heart of Georgia’s Lake Country. Surrounded by rolling hills and fertile farmland, Eatonton has long been known for its agricultural roots, particularly in cotton production during its early years.

The Rock Eagle Effigy should top your list when visiting Eatonton. This ancient Native American mound, shaped like a massive bird, is estimated to be over 1,000 years old and stands as a testament to the region’s deep history. It’s one of only two such effigy mounds in North America.

Literary enthusiasts will also appreciate Eatonton’s connection to Joel Chandler Harris, author of the Uncle Remus tales, and Alice Walker, author of The Color Purple. Today, visitors can explore the Uncle Remus Museum, celebrating Harris’s legacy and the town’s cultural heritage.

10. Fayetteville

This historic town in Georgia was established in 1823 as the seat of Fayette County. Fayetteville is named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French Revolutionary War hero. Situated just south of Atlanta, the town grew as a small agricultural community before evolving into a hub of heritage and charm.

Its centerpiece is the Fayette County Courthouse, built in 1825 and still in use today. Surrounded by quaint shops and eateries, this courthouse is the oldest in Georgia and a proud landmark in Fayetteville’s town square.

History lovers should visit the Holliday-Dorsey-Fife House Museum. Built in 1855, the house is a window into Fayetteville’s past, showcasing artifacts and stories tied to the Civil War and local history. Starr’s Mill, a nearby historic gristmill, adds to Fayetteville’s charm, offering serene views and a peek into early industry.